The Closing of an Exciting Chapter…………

As I think back on my journey through this program, there is such a wealth of learning that I have gained. There are many treasures that I have acquired along the way, the greatest perhaps is discovering the validity and research that the field of early childhood education is built upon. It’s motivating and exhilarating to know that this field, that I have always felt and known was valuable, is beginning to receive the recognition and respect that it deserves. And because of this, quality learning experiences are occurring. Other disciplines such as the medical profession are collaborating with the field of early childhood, this is an exciting time to be in this field of study. I have also learned that the field is becoming more inclusive, by that I mean, it’s no longer one method should reach all. The field is focusing on areas such as an anti-bias education being culturally responsive. I also take away with me the knowledge of how valuable colleagues are. My colleagues were a rich resource for me to pull from during this journey.

My long-term goal is teach families parents how to advocate for their child’s education. I truly believe that the obstacles that currently deter or stop quality learning experiences are present because of parents not being instructed or encouraged to advocate for their child’s rights and their rights as a family. My favorite quote acquired from this course says it best. The happiness of our society begins with the well -being of the families that live in it. ~ Kofi Annan, Nobel Peace Prize Winner and Seventh Secretary General of the United Nations.

To my colleagues, I say “Thank You! Thank You! Thank You!” You have helped me to view through a wider lens and be more accepting and value others opinions and ideas.  You have caused me to grow as a professional and a person. . Although this may be our last time collaborating in this context, it is my hope that we will continue to collaborate in our field of study. My email address is cranecharlene@gmail.com. To my instructor for this course, thank you for assisting me with pin pointing my passion. You have helped me start on my life’s work.

 "Always Encourage Our Children's Creativity"

                                     

Job/Roles in the ECE Community: Internationally

 Job/Roles in the ECE Community:Internationally

Choice 1

United Nations Education, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)

 http://www.unesco.org/new/en/unesco/about-us/who-we-are/introducing-unesco/

UNESCO’s objectives are

• Attaining quality education for all and lifelong learning
• Mobilizing science knowledge and policy for sustainable development
• Addressing emerging social and ethical challenges
• Fostering cultural diversity, intercultural dialogue and a culture of peace
• Building inclusive knowledge societies through information and communication

I chose this particular organization because these are the goals or objectives that every educator poses or should possess. Therefore, this would be a great organization to partner with to accomplish these goals on an international level.

I would like to be employed as a consultant or expertise on their Education Roster in the area of Early Childhood Care and Education. For this position I would have to have relevant professional experience at the national, regional Significant experience working in developing countries may be required for some assignments. An advanced university degree. Excellent knowledge of English or French.

Choice 2

International Step By Step Association

http://www.issa.nl/index.html

This organization mission is to provide quality care and education for all. This organization also connects professionals and organizations working in the field of early childhood development and education. It also provides a comprehensive set of educational services and advocacy tools to influence policy reform for families and children.

I chose this organization and would like to be a part of it because of its ability to connect professionals within the field from around the world together. This would be a great resource and support. It would also promote inclusive strategies that I could incorporate into my teaching.

I would like to be employed as a person who would teach advocacy skills to parents. This would require an ability to partner with parents and a knowledge of laws that affect children and families.

Choice 3

Save the Children.  

 http://www.savethechildren.org/site/c.8rKLIXMGIpI4E/b.6115947/k.8D6E/Official_Site.htm

Save the Children mission is to create lasting change in the lives of children in need in the United States and around the world. They work with other organizations, governments, non-profits and a variety of local partners while maintaining independence without political agenda or religious orientation.
When disaster strikes around the world, they save lives with food, medical care and education and remain to help communities rebuild. The organization also resolves the ongoing struggles children face every day, poverty, hunger, illiteracy and disease by replacing them with hope for the future.
I chose this organization because of its goal and ability to make a lasting impact in children’s lives. This organization provides the basic needs that must be present for an effective learning environment.
I would like to assist with teaching those who are illiterate. This would require compassion patience and knowledge of teaching individuals how to read.

Job/Roles in ECE Community: National/Federal

The Center for Advanced Study of Teaching and Learning

(CASTL)

http://curry.virginia.edu/research/centers/castl/news

The mission of this organization, located at the University of Virginia, is to advance the quality and impact of teaching through scientific study in educational settings from infancy to higher education.

I chose this particular organization because its aim is to transform education through scientific collaborations that integrate different perspectives and disciplines. The scientific collaborations develop and redefine tools that are used directly to improve teaching and strengthening learning across the United States.

CASTL researchers has just received 1.5 million grant to support teachers of toddlers to develop a six month online course for teachers working with toddlers. The online course will provide early care teachers with targeted strategies and resources that balance between the classroom and individual children. One of the major requirements is that teachers know how important language development is in supporting children development.

Center for the Child Care Workforce

(CCW)

http://www.ccw.org/

The mission of the CCW is to improve the quality of early care and education for all children by promoting policy, research and organizing that ensure the early care and education workforce is well educated, receives better compensation and a voice in their work place.

The CCW offer training classes such as,

Leadership Empowerment Action Project (LEAP)

 Taking on Turnover

  Creating Better Child Care Jobs

  Lifting the Lid on Child Care Wages

 Getting Training in Your Community

I would be interested in teaching the class “Taking on Turnover”. This class teaches strategies that would eliminate high turnover in early child care. The course explores how to make child care centers a place where co-workers can grow and develop as practitioners while providing the best possible stability and continuity for children and families.

I chose this organization because it addresses teacher’s needs and concerns and I believe that teachers who are satisfied in their jobs provide quality educations to their students. Teachers are valuable and they must be treated accordingly.

Voices for Georgia’s Children

http://georgiavoices.org/

The mission of the Voices for Georgia’s Children is to be a powerful, unifying voice for a public agenda that ensures the well-being of all of Georgia’s children. Voices for Georgia’s Children is a nonprofit child policy and advocacy organization that envisions a Georgia where children are safe, healthy, educated, employable, and connected to their family and community.

I chose this organization because it addresses laws that affect children. For example, currently, Voices for Georgia’s Children is advocating for the Farm Bill. Voices is asking Georgia members of the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives to preserve current funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The Farm Bill guides funding for federal farm and food policies. This includes the Food Stamp/Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).  SNAP includes assistance for struggling families and funding for free and reduced school meals for children in need.

I would like to work for this organization because it informs parents and community members how to advocate for children rights.